Some kids learn to say “please” and “thank you” and to wait their turn by watching others. But kids with learning and attention issues might not pick up on common social interactions simply through observation. If your child struggles with social skills, a social skills group could help.
Social skills include far more than the ability to communicate with other people. They’re crucial to making friends, succeeding in school and, later in life, getting and keeping a job. Social skills groups are small groups led by an adult who teaches the kids how to interact appropriately with others their age. They can help kids learn conversational, friendship and problem-solving skills. They can also be useful in teaching kids to control their emotions and understand other people’s perspectives. Kids can learn important skills that they’ll use the rest of their lives. This includes learning how to greet others, start a conversation, respond to others, maintain a conversation, share and take turns, and ask for help. Social skills groups are best for kids who aren’t developing social skills as quickly as their peers. This may include kids with ADHD, who can be too active and physical in their play. It may include kids with nonverbal learning disabilities, who may have trouble picking up on social cues, like body language, tone of voice and facial expressions. It may also include kids with social communication challenges and other types of learning or behavior issues. Turtle Wing Foundation has offered Turtle Tweens, a social skills group for youth in grades 3rd through 8th grade. They are now opening a third group for children preK through 2nd grade. The next gathering will actually be a shared experience on December 8th at the Schulenburg Library “Llamas at the Library” event starting at 9 AM. There are a number of fun, holiday activities offered all morning. Parents should stay with their child and enjoy the morning together with their child’s new friends. Dawn McMillan will be there representing Turtle Wing and answering questions for anyone interested in seeing if this is a group that their child might benefit from. To talk to Dawn McMillan in advance she may be reached at 512-718-1617 or fcwchild@gmail.com. This program is being underwritten by a grant from Second Chance Emporium so there is no fee to participate. Turtle Wing’s mission is to “help children with learning challenges in rural areas with learning challenges achieve their full potential”. The foundation serves youth in Fayette, Lavaca, Colorado and surrounding counties. For more information on the foundation contact Turtle Wing managing director, Susie Shank at 979-505-5090 or Susie@turtlewingfoundation.org.
